A high-scoring duel after a sensational start: prediction for Viktoria Plzeň vs Brno
The second-round clash of the Czech Championship between Viktoria Plzeň and Brno will take place on August 1st at the Doosan Arena in Plzeň. The hosts will be aiming to bounce back after a disappointing season opener, while the newly promoted side is looking to build on their stunning victory over Sparta Prague.
Viktoria Plzeň: favorites facing unexpected defensive issues
Last season, Martin Giský's team finished third with 63 points, earning a spot in the Europa League qualifiers. Viktoria wrapped up the championship campaign in confident fashion, suffering just one defeat in the final five matches of the championship group.
However, the new season started painfully for the club. In the opening round, Plzeň suffered a shock 1-3 home defeat to Slovan Liberec, despite traditionally being one of the main title contenders.
Viktoria's recent matches have been wide open affairs. In their last six games, an average of four goals were scored, with both teams finding the net in 83% of those encounters.
Brno: the newcomers have already toppled a giant
Back in the top division, Brno kicked off the season with one of the round's biggest upsets. The team defeated Sparta Prague 3-1, showcasing clinical finishing in the final third.
Despite their opponent dominating possession, Brno created chances worth 2.03 expected goals compared to Sparta's 1.69 xG. This stat proves the newcomers' success was anything but a fluke.
Across their last six matches in all competitions, Brno have claimed five wins, averaging 2.33 goals per game. In four of those six encounters, the total goals surpassed 2.5.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Two of Viktoria's last three league matches have produced at least four goals.
- Brno have scored at least three times in each of their last two official fixtures.
- The last two league meetings between these sides saw a total of eight goals scored.
Defenses set to be tested again: prediction for Viktoria Plzeň vs Brno
After the defeat to Slovan, the hosts will need to play with far more aggression and create more chances in front of goal. Defensive concerns, however, remain unresolved: Viktoria conceded three in the opening round and recently allowed Young Boys to score five in a friendly.
Brno have already shown they won't sit back, even against the favorites. The newcomers are clinical with their chances, in great form, and fully capable of keeping up the high tempo of attacking football.
